1. Not Setting Budget Priorities
Yeah, yeah, yeah, you don't want to think priorities; you want to revel in dreams! Sorry, sister-if you don't wake up, you'll become mired in bills without really knowing why (um, who thought the Rolls Royce rental was a good idea?!).
The solution: Start with a realistic overall budget (which will involve planning meetings with your fiance). Then list, in order of 'gotta have it,' your wedding details, says Debi Lilly, owner of A Perfect Event, in Chicago. 'That way you can put your dollars on the higher priorities, and spend less on what isn't so important.' One example: A foodie couple might prefer to host a fabulous dinner for 50 that includes wonderful wine, whereas a couple who loves a party might invite 100 or more for a simple buffet, and splurge on a hot band.
2. Not reading the fine print
Don't skip reading anything, and if you have questions, ask immediately, especially about payment terms, says Jennifer Blanco, wedding sales manager at Danford's Hotel & Marina in Port Jefferson, New York. You want to know exactly when payments or balances are due; if there are any minimum charges, corkage fees for wine, cake-cutting fees-or any other possibly pricey unknowns. If your wedding is a year or more away, be sure to block in guaranteed prices on catering and liquor.
The solution: Never sign any contract on the spot; take it home and read over everything and make note of questions and concerns. If a vendor pressures you to s...
Read full article at Bridalguide.com